Water-Based Tanning

We have added more than UVA and UVB screens to help protect your skin and promote a safe and gradual tan. Unlike waterproof products that are oil or wax-based, Grab A Tan is oil-free, water-based, and water-soluble. It isn’t waterproof and will come off in water. It is ideal for golfing, hiking, and any out-of-water activities.

One would not lay on the beach wearing a life preserver just in case they might go in the water. This rule also applies to beach and out-of-water activities when using waterproof sunscreen. Oils and waxes in waterproof products can intensify sunlight and heat your skin. You will perspire much more. You risk getting sunburned or developing a rash from sweat trapped under oils and waxes. If choosing water activities, use a waterproof product, and get out of the sun when you exit the water. At Waikiki Aloe, we believe the SPF number is merely a “guide”, and that many other things need to be taken into consideration. The surrounding ingredients in a product, especially if they are oil-based, are just as important, if not more so, than the SPF number. Excessive perspiration, sun-sensitizing medications, and tanning during peak sunlight are all key factors. Further, if you live in a cold climate and are on a tropical winter vacation, your skin is much more sensitive than it would be at summer’s end at home, after your skin has had a month or two of regular sunshine to “condition” itself. In addition, skin tones are not equal, and someone with pink tones cannot handle as much sun as someone with darker tones. These factors make tanning and burning more complex.

In the past, we offered several SPF numbers from an SPF2 to SPF10, but currently only offer our two best sellers: SPF10 and SPF2. If you’ve used our products before, select the number closest to your previous choice. Use extra caution with SPF2, and feel freer with SPF10, as it offers more protection than SPF6 or SPF8. In the future, know that we may bring back one number in the middle.

Melanin is a dark pigment found in the deepest layer of the skin that rises to the surface in response to sunlight, causing the skin to become darker. It is our body’s way of offering its own natural protection against ultraviolet rays. However, it doesn’t happen instantly, and many people of all skin tones end up overdosing on ultraviolet exposure. They end up burning the outer layer of skin before the melanin has time to “rise to the occasion.”

Finally, note that all sunscreen ingredients are strong chemicals. These chemicals are ultimately absorbed through the skin. Higher SPF numbers mean more chemicals are absorbed by the skin. Sunscreens can use fewer chemicals by eliminating oily ingredients while still effectively preventing Grab A Tan seems to be the only water-based, oil-free, water-soluble product in today’s skin care market. Although Grab A Tan SPF 10 and Grab A Tan SPF 2 have low SPF values, they are more effective than most sunscreens with higher SPFs.